It's almost time to return to Pride Rock.
We're just a little over a month away from Disney's photo-realistic "live-action" adaptation of The Lion King roars its way into theaters, revealing with stars like Donald Glover, Seth Rogen, Billy Eichner and a little up-and-comer named Beyoncé will do as they step into the paws of such iconic characters as Simba, Pumba, Timon, and Nala, respectively. But before we sob our eyes out at Childish Gambino and Queen Bey giving their all on "Can You Feel The Love Tonight," we've got a special milestone to celebrate. And that's the 25th anniversary of the original Lion King's debut.
That's right—it's been two-and-a-half freaking decades since Disney first introduced the world to the circle of life, hakuna matata, and the most dysfunctional sibling rivalry the savanna's ever seen. The film went on to become recognized as, without question, the crown jewel of the Mouse House's animated library, becoming one of 1994's highest-grossing films of the year, second in the U.S. only to Forrest Gump.
In honor of the film's big birthday, we gathered the 25 most surprising secrets and fascinating facts from the making of The Lion King that'll have you feeling the love tonight. Enjoy!